Origin of Gears
The gear is one of the oldest and most fundamental mechanical components. Its basic function dates back thousands of years.
Who Invented Gears?
Gears were invented by the ancient Greeks approximantely 2000 BC. They were inspired by the natural mechanism of the fish’s otolith. Gears were initially used for simple tasks such as powering mills uses for grinding grain and saws.
How Have Gears Progressed?
Since the early invention of gears, there have been advances in the technology making them more efficient and functional. The industrial revolution in the 18th century was a major milestone in the advancement of gears. This included the introdiuction of the rack and pinion in 1797, which is still in use today.
The invention of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) has enabled more efficient and complex designs along with quicker production speeds. Some modern gears have even include laser-engraved numbers and bar codes for even further accuracy.
What Are Gears Used For?
Today, gears are used for a wide variety of purposes, some of which are:
- Transmission of motion – used for transferring motion between two different axes
- Transmission of rotary motion – used to control the speed and direction of rotary motion
- Transmission of power – used to transfer power from one point to another with the help of a mechanical linkage
Gears are also used to control the speed of a machine such as in cars and other vehicles.
Conclusion
The gear is a fundamental and ancient mechanical component that has progressed and developed significantly over the years. Gears are still used today in a wide variety of settings and applications. While many believe the ancient Greeks were the ones to have invented them, there is still debate and discussion around the topic.